Lucknow, Dec 26: Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh on Tuesday commended the ‘Vishwakarma Shram Samman Yojna’ during the closing ceremony of One District One Product and Vishwakarma Shram Samman Yojna (ODOP/VSSY) organized by Uttar Pradesh Institute of Design & Research at Lucknow Campus. The event marked the culmination of 10 days of training, with certificates issued to almost 1300 beneficiary artisans.
Dr Jitendra, as the chief guest, toured the exhibition alongside Kshipra Shukla & Prajnal Yadav, encouraging beneficiary artisans for their design-led contemporary products. During the event, the book “Journey Continues” chronicling UPIDR’s journey from 2017 onwards, was launched by Dr Jitendra Singh, Kshipra Shukla, and Pranjal Yadav.
Addressing the artisans, Dr Singh highlighted the transformative impact of government schemes for the artisanal community since 2014. He emphasized Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment to “Vocal for Local” and the emergence of a self-reliant India. He expressed confidence in the youth, stating that they would lead the country’s development when it completes 100 years of independence.
Congratulating the UPIDR Chairman for organizing the successful program, the union minister commended the institution for fulfilling the vision of Prime Minister Modi. Chairman UPIDR underscored the contribution of today’s artisans to the development of the country, aligning with the principles of “Atamnirbahr Bharat.”
Director of UPIDR, Pranjal Yadav, explained that the scheme, launched in 2018-19, provides artisans with toolkits, 10 days of training, stipends, and financial support through bank loans. He emphasized the positive impact of these initiatives, bringing artisans back to their roots and enabling them to pass on their traditional crafts to the next generation.
Artisans present at the closing expressed gratitude to the Modi-Yogi government for introducing impactful welfare schemes.
